PR.DS-5: Data Leak Prevention – NIST CSF Control
Data leaks represent one of the highest compliance and business risks SMBs face. PR.DS-5 requires organizations to implement protections that prevent unauthorized data disclosure across networks, endpoints, and storage. GRCWatch helps you map, monitor, and maintain these defenses continuously.
What this means
PR.DS-5 mandates the implementation of Data Leak Prevention (DLP) controls and safeguards to prevent unauthorized exposure of sensitive, confidential, or regulated data. This includes detection and blocking of data exfiltration attempts, encryption of data in transit and at rest, access controls limiting who can view or transfer sensitive information, and monitoring mechanisms that identify suspicious data movement. The control ensures that data protection measures are active, monitored, and responsive to threats.
How to comply
- 1.Deploy DLP tools to monitor and block unauthorized data transfers across email, cloud storage, USB devices, and network channels
- 2.Classify all organizational data by sensitivity level and apply protection rules accordingly
- 3.Encrypt sensitive data in transit (TLS/SSL) and at rest using strong encryption standards
- 4.Implement network segmentation to isolate sensitive data and restrict access to authorized users only
- 5.Monitor and log all data access and transfer events; set alerts for anomalous patterns
- 6.Establish clear data handling policies and train employees on proper data protection practices
- 7.Test DLP controls quarterly to ensure effectiveness and update rules based on emerging threats
- 8.Maintain audit logs and evidence of DLP enforcement for compliance audits
Evidence auditors look for
- DLP tool configuration reports and active rule sets
- Data classification policy and records showing applied classifications
- Encryption certificates and configuration documentation for data in transit and at rest
- Network segmentation diagrams and access control lists (ACLs)
- DLP incident logs showing blocked or detected data exfiltration attempts
- Employee training records on data handling and DLP awareness
- DLP control test results and remediation documentation
- Cloud storage and email gateway security policy exports
Frequently asked questions
When will FAQs be available?
The FAQ for this control is currently being prepared.
GRCWatch automatically inventories your DLP tools, monitors rule effectiveness, tracks data classification gaps, and generates audit-ready evidence for PR.DS-5—eliminating manual log review and control testing.
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